BACK COME THE h.g.v. LICENCES
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by Our Political Correspondent
DRAFT REGULATIONS to cover the reintroduction of h.g.v. drivers' licences are expected to go out soon. The MoT's aim is to circulate the proposals and have them under discussion by the industry before the end of the year.
The Regulations will cover the nature of the Ministry's tests and the basic qualifications for applicants, including medical standards, past driving records, general experience and knowledge.
Despite pressure in some quarters, age is not one of the restrictions to be imposed on the holding of an h.g.v. driving licence, but it now seems clear that health requirements will be reasonably strict.
The Ministry is showing signs of tackling the general health problem involved in driving all types of vehicles, and the
introduction of h.g.v. licences may see the first steps to tighten up a "worrying" aspect of road safety.
In this regard epilepsy, "heart trouble", migraine, fatigue illnesses and respiratory troubles will be closely watched.
The time may not be far off when drivers of all types of vehicle will have to give evidence of a medical check rather than merely signing to the effect that they do not suffer from certain diseases and symptoms.
The h.g.v. tests will almost certainly carry this more positive requirement. Discussions have been taking place between the Ministry and the British Medical Association to make compulsory health checks part of the routine.
FOOTNOTE: H.g.v. driving licences have not been required since the outbreak of World War II.